Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the three rules of mountaineering?

It’s always further than it looks. It’s always taller than it looks. It’s always harder than it looks.

What are your favorites quotes?

Getting to the top is optional. Getting down is mandatory.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. - Sir Rannulph Fiennes

Sometimes the juice is just not worth the squeeze.

The weather isn't always great but the memories are.

What books do you recommend reading to start learning the ropes?

I am a voracious reader, love to learn and equally love teaching. Checking my library of books I have over 40 titles related to the alpine world. If you had to only read one book I would recommend the extensive Freedom of the Hills by The Mountaineers. I can't think of much the book doesn't cover. Inside is good data on everything from food to clothing systems to technical rappelling to snow anchors.

Diving into greater subject detail Bruce Tremper's book Avalanche Essentials is the de facto standard for Avy knowledge.

A new book that is quite awesome is Marc Chauvin's, The Mountain Guide Manual. It's more technical in nature, however, addresses current best practices on many subjects and introduces some new concepts.

*Note: While books, videos, & mentors all present great learning resources nothing compares to professional instruction from a qualified guide.